Prison Poems

Poems for When a Family Member is in Jail

Prison is the punishment that keeps on taking. Long after the individual has regretted his or her sin and wishes to go back to living a productive life, he must stay in prison wasting his precious years on this earth. Almost anything you take from a man can be given back except time. He can never reclaim the time that was stolen from him. He can never experience his children growing up for they are already grown. He can never experience those precious moments with his wife for most likely she has moved on. Of all the crimes that man commits to go to prison, in most cases our decision to keep him there is worse.

25 Poignant and Heart-wrenching Poems about Prison

1. My Rage
- By Lorilei Brown
- Published by Family Friend Poems September 2013
I have been abused like any other child out there has. It makes no difference, Abuse is Abuse! That's how I've learned to be respected by others. So do not judge me for what I've done in my past. Everyone makes mistakes and I have truly learned from mine..... Have You?

Poem About The Abused Becoming An Abuser

During my childhood I was badly abused
and as I grew older, I became the accused.

The beating I took came straight from dad,

During my childhood I was badly abused
and as I grew older, I became the accused.

The beating I took came straight from dad,
who used every obstacle to beat me so bad.

That tears that I've shed were because of fear,
that kick that I took it deafened my ear.

Doing hard labor at the age of nine
keeping the torment in back of my mind.

Eventually I became this child of steel
hard as a rock, with no tender feel.

I became immune to the blows to my head
as the tips of my welts that slightly bled.

The pain, it faded and my mind grew weak,
but as my body grew stronger, I became this freak.

He said he'll teach me from wrong to right,
but my rage grew stronger, so I stood to his fight.

He kicked down my door, I stood to my feet
he sensed the difference as our eyes finally meet.

I held no fear by the stare of my eyes
I was no longer afraid, but wanted him to die.

Speechless we stood as my fist starts to flinch
while he drew closer, I never flinched.

His first blow landed forcefully on my eye
I shook it off and said, "It's your turn to cry".

We fought like caged animals, He fell hard on the floor
I spat in his face and said, "NO MORE!".

After that night no two words were said,
walking to the beach with conflicting thoughts in my head.

Like: What did I do?, but yet felt as ease
I was happy to see him begging me please.

Was it the right thing for me to attack?
For the beatings to stop so he won't hit me back?

It must be the way for him to leave me alone.
I saw the fear in his eyes that had once been my own.

As I grew older it lingered in my mind
the memories I harbored never stayed behind.

I figured, "I'll be respected if I fight my way through
because I've powered over my dad and I can power over you".

I never started trouble, but if it came my way
I'd fight to destroy with nothing to say.

The littlest thing you do can get me mad
who knows what will happen as you fade into dad.

My past still haunts me after all these years
it brings me power and hides my fears.

When I get into rage I can no longer see,
but I know you're my dad who stands in front of me.

I'll give all I've got till the damage is done
once again my past has won.

I've abused so many loved ones or not,
but I never cared and I never stopped.

It took that one night when she yelled it at me,
"The Devils in your eyes, Oh GOD please help me!".

The fear that I saw it made my heart burn
I wanted to run, but no where to turn.

I looked deep in her eyes and I seen myself there
she was badly bruised, just shaking with fear.

Now I'm in prison and paying my dues
for the damages I've caused with scared black & blues.

The memories continue to haunt me today
I want it to stop, please GOD take it away.
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 3
- Shares 767
- Favorited 72
- Votes 288
- Rating 4.60
Featured Shared Story

Hi, my name is Lisa. This poem really touched my heart in more ways than I'm even able to say. It brought back so many bad memories that I have tucked away for a long time. Sometimes I wonder...

Read complete story

Share your story! (3)

2. My Prayer
- By Tina Fortner
- Published by Family Friend Poems December 2011
My name is Tina. My husband's name is Jason. He is currently in a state prison. He's been there 12 years, and I miss him so much. I moved over 300 miles from my hometown recently to the city where the prison is located so I could be here closer to him. I don't know anyone here, so it's been extremely hard. We still have a ways to go, but we'll make it. Our love is forever.

Husband Is In Jail Poem

I feel a tear run down my face
As I sit in this quiet, lonely place.
I think of you and need you here.
I wipe away my falling tear.

I feel a tear run down my face
As I sit in this quiet, lonely place.
I think of you and need you here.
I wipe away my falling tear.
I hit the floor on bended knee.
I ask, I beg, I start to plead.
Please bring him home.
God, no longer do I want to be alone.
Is there an Angel you could send to us
And give us a miracle? In God I trust.
He's done enough time; he needs to be free.
Please God, bring him home to me.
We believe in love; I believe in you.
Please God, is there something you could do?
I'll make it up to you, God, you know I will.
I'll be good and honest, grateful and true.
So please send us an Angel, is all I ask of you
I'll say this prayer each and every day
Until he is in my arms and home to stay.
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 85
- Shares 3075
- Favorited 156
- Votes 679
- Rating 4.58
Featured Shared Story

I so identify with your testimony. My husband and I have been together 34 years, and have been married for 32 years. He has served 26 years of a life sentence for a crime he didn't commit. I...

Read complete story

Share your story! (85)

3. The Game
- By Susan Christensen
- Published by Family Friend Poems June 2008
This was written to my boyfriend in jail while I was missing him more than words can describe.

Poem About Missing Boyfriend In Jail

Let me tell you about a game I play
Where I close my eyes and fade away

I float away to a special place

Let me tell you about a game I play
Where I close my eyes and fade away

I float away to a special place
Beyond the stars and moon and space

In this special place you see
There are only two people - just you and me

In this place, all is right
Nothing but love, and we never fight

In this place, there is no sadness
No cells, no courts, none of that madness

No rules to follow, no laws to break
No bars to hold us or separate

No one to tell us we can't kiss or touch
I don't just tell you "I love you" - I show you how much

But eventually the game must end
My eyes must open, and reality sets in

But someday soon - I'm not sure when
I will close my eyes and play my game again
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 148
- Shares 11993
- Favorited 291
- Votes 1415
- Rating 4.51
Featured Shared Story

I wanted to cry when I read this. I didn't realize how often I do this, even throughout the day. This one touched my heart. My husband has been in jail for 3 years. He got 7 years and there...

Read complete story

Share your story! (148)
4. Without You
- By Dawn
- Published by Family Friend Poems December 2016
This is a poem I wrote for my boyfriend who is incarcerated!

Missing Boyfriend Who's In Prison

All these days and nights without you here,
It's a little bit more than I can bear.

The days are cold and so very long.

All these days and nights without you here,
It's a little bit more than I can bear.

The days are cold and so very long.
I don't know how much longer I can be strong.

My nights are so lonely and sad.
Sometimes I can't help but get mad.

I see your face everywhere I look.
It breaks my heart that my great love is what they took.

Without you here it feels like the end.
I'm lost without you 'cause you were also my best friend.

I'll be counting the days and nights till we're together again.
Until then, it's all my love that I send!
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 1
- Shares 10808
- Favorited 184
- Votes 911
- Rating 4.40
Featured Shared Story

The first time I had a boyfriend, we dated 6 years (basically from when I was in 4th grade until now). Very recently, we broke up because he was always busy, and I hardly saw him. Now that...

Read complete story

Share your story! (1)

5. Yaz And Orr
- By Ronald Doe
- Published by Family Friend Poems January 2009
One of my most heartfelt and favorite poems despite the sadness involved in it.
Yaz and Orr were our childhood sport heroes. Yaz was a Boston Red Sox player whose real name is Carl Yastremski and Orr is Bobby Orr who was the greatest hockey player ever. Both are still Boston icons and in the Hall of Fame of their respective sports.

Poem About 2 Brothers Once So Close

My brother was always my best friend,
We would play sports and we'd just pretend.
I'd hit a homer, a goal he'd score,
You see I was Yaz and he was Orr.

My brother was always my best friend,
We would play sports and we'd just pretend.
I'd hit a homer, a goal he'd score,
You see I was Yaz and he was Orr.

As we grew up in The Project Courts,
Nothing mattered except for sports.
We never once thought about a girl,
As we lived in our fantasy world.

For in the courtyard in which we'd play,
The next Bobby Orr would proudly say.
"Ronnie, someday when I'm all grown up,
I'll help The B's win The Stanley Cup.

Score the winning goal in the last game,
And all of Boston will chant my name.
But till that day comes I guess once more,
You can be Yaz and I will be Orr."

Butchie and I played hockey for fun,
And we weren't out to hurt anyone.
But then came drugs, fast money and girls,
And playing sports wasn't in this world.

Because as the years went flying by,
Butchie's goal was to be a Wise Guy.
With the new meaning of the word "score",
They'd be no more Yaz and no more Orr.

I saw Butchie in the project court,
Where we had played every single sport.
His eyes were bugged and his vision blurred,
And when he spoke his speech was slurred.

His face was pale, his expression blank,
He told me he was robbing a bank.
I said, "Butchie, what about poor Ma?
Her heart can't take another scar".

But the madness in my brother's eyes,
Brought out the sadness in my cries.
For there was hatred not seen before,
Back when I was Yaz and he was Orr.

And on the day he was sent to jail,
I had a vision that seemed so real.
I pictured him on a breakaway,
I saw him wink and I heard him say.

"Ronnie, someday when I'm all grown up,
I'll help The B's win The Stanley Cup.
Score the winning goal in the last game,
And all of Boston will chant my name".

As fate would have it, it was his name,
That truly was Butchie's claim to fame.
But in my heart I just wish once more,
I could be Yaz and he could be Orr.
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 0
- Shares 471
- Favorited 6
- Votes 100
- Rating 4.33
Featured Shared Story

No Stories yet, You can be the first!

Share your story! (0)
6. Thoughts Of A Convict
- By Luis Verduzco
- Published by Family Friend Poems October 2009
Poem About An Ex-Con's Future After Release From Jail

Someday the gates will open,
and once more I'll be free.
A fact that makes me wonder,
"What will become of me?"

Someday the gates will open,
and once more I'll be free.
A fact that makes me wonder,
"What will become of me?"

Have I a future awaiting me,
Such as the past I've known?
Will I be accepted by others,
or forced to walk alone?

Are there opportunities of employment,
for a man such as I?
Or will I have to sell dope again,
in order to get by?

What of the friends that I once knew,
but haven't seen in years?
Will they accept my friendship now,
without any doubts or fears?

What is there awaiting me,
When I go out of that gate?
Is there yet a chance for me,
or is it now too late?
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 1
- Shares 516
- Favorited 52
- Votes 96
- Rating 4.64
Featured Shared Story

I am a female who is out on parole. I spent 5 years of my life in prison for my crime. They said my punishment was for rehabilitation, but instead they just locked me away. I didn't learn how...

Read complete story

Share your story! (1)
7. The Forgotten Victim
- By Alison Henderson
- Published by Family Friend Poems December 2007
Unless a person has experienced this situation, it is very hard to put in to words. Families of prisoners are the forgotten victims.

Husband In Prison

A person's comment:

"That's her there! Her hubby's inside!"
"How can she stand by him?" a neighbor cried!

A person's comment:

"That's her there! Her hubby's inside!"
"How can she stand by him?" a neighbor cried!
"I'd throw away the lock and key!"'
"That husband of hers should never be free!"

"That woman can do so much better than him!"
"I'd throw all his letters away in the bin!"
"Just what can he offer now that he's locked away?"
"A complete waste of space!" she shouted that day.

"That's the one there! Her boyfriend's inside!"
"He's scum of the earth!" a neighbor implied!
"If I were her, well I'd meet someone else!
"Not wasting my life to be left on the shelf!"

"That woman's been left to cope with the shame."
"It was all over the papers! And gave out his name."
"He's useless! A criminal! Bring back the rope!"
"He'll do it again! For him there's no hope!"

My comment:

That man you condemn has a child and a wife
A mum and a dad who have given him life!
What would you do if this happened to yours?
Deny all your love and close all the doors?

Do you honestly think I'd sink to a level
And just turn my back and deem him a devil?
Yes! He's done wrong and is serving his time
And no, I do not agree with his crime.

"That woman" you point at, yes, it is me.
I was born with a name, as I'm human, you see!
I'm innocent, just in case you forgot
And love him whether you like it or not!

I've had the abuse, the comments and more.
It's nothing I haven't heard before.
I mean no offense when I say this to you
I'm a victim as well, a forgotten one, too.
More...

Go To Poem Page
- Stories 91
- Shares 459
- Favorited 53
- Votes 156
- Rating 4.55
Featured Shared Story

Both my husband and I have done a lot of time, and being apart it so hard. There is no rehabilitation in the system, and sometimes people make mistakes, but that does not mean you turn your...

Read complete story

Share your story! (91)
8. Daddy, You're In Jail
- By Sydnie L. Jackson
- Published by Family Friend Poems February 2006
A child writes to her father who is in jail. She writes him words of hope and love, reminding him that there are many outside who love him.

Poem About Daughter Missing Dad In Jail

Daddy, you're in jail so far, far away,
and it hurts me almost every day.
I knew when I was there
it was coming to an end.

Daddy, you're in jail so far, far away,
and it hurts me almost every day.
I knew when I was there
it was coming to an end.
I knew I should have done something
right there and then.

Daddy, you're in jail so far, far away;
you can't even be a part of my life today.
As I go through boyfriends and do other things
you won't be there to call
when me and my mom are
yelling names, cussing at each other,
and she's putting me to shame because
I did some of those bad teenage things.

Daddy, you're in jail so far, far away.
I wonder, when you get out,
will things be the same?
Will you be the dad that I know or
will you be someone else 'cause
jail changed your soul?
I don't understand the reason for this -
going to prison for drugs when in
there it's a bigger mess.
It's like taking a drunk to a bar
and expecting him to sober up
when you know he's just
gonna get more messed up.

Daddy, you're in jail so far, far away.
When you get out I guess I will see
the answers to the question I have today,
but for right now I will just continue to pray
and hope for the best until that day.
I still love you and will write you too.
Please don't forget about me because
I will always care and miss you.

Daddy, you're in jail so far, far away
while I sit here, tears running down my face,
hoping everything will fall into place.
I will never forget the time we had
and try to be brave and not be sad.
Daddy, I know it's hard and you got a lot on your plate,
but remember there's people willing to wait
for you to turn straight.

Daddy, you're in jail so far, far away.
You've got 3 kids and parents too
that haven't given up on you.
You got a second chance to make it right,
so continue the fight of the battle; you've got
to make it back to the ones you love!
More...

Go To Poem Page
- Stories 77
- Shares 510
- Favorited 19
- Votes 147
- Rating 4.52
Featured Shared Story

The last time I saw my dad was July 23, 2015. My dad is currently in jail right now. My dad was in jail for eight years before. He got out when I was in second grade. The reason he went to...

Read complete story

Share your story! (77)
9. End Of A Journey
- By Ken Budden
- Published by Family Friend Poems April 2011
This is a poem I will be sending to my son as he nears the end of a prison sentence. It's really a sequel to "Too Young for Bars," the poem I wrote when my son was first sent away.

Poem About Coming Home From Prison

The end of your journey is now in sight,
And from the darkness you can now see light.
I know it's been tough, but I'm hoping you know,
From that hard bitter lesson, "You reap what you sow".

The end of your journey is now in sight,
And from the darkness you can now see light.
I know it's been tough, but I'm hoping you know,
From that hard bitter lesson, "You reap what you sow".

I wrote a letter each week all through the years
To try and dispel your earlier fears
That friends would forget you, never want you again,
And I know it happened...wish I could spare you the pain.

For those who forsook you, give them no thought.
They were never true friends and never your sort.
Start a new life, you've gone from "boy to a man,"
And you know I will help you as much as I can.

But you're coming home stronger and wiser, I feel.
All your heartaches and heartbreaks will eventually heal.
You have a young son who will need you each day,
And I know you will love him in the best possible way.

It's going to be hard, I'll not lie to you,
But manners and humility will see you through,
Do not be afraid to ask for advice,
That's what I'm here for and "cheap at the price."

Temptations will come, but it's time to be strong,
Just remember the first time and what you did wrong.
Do you really want to be locked up again?
And put friends and loved ones through more terrible pain?

I am not so religious as I really should be.
I only pray in an emergency,
But He'll answer my prayers and those of my friend,
And see your life through to a fruitful end.

Just want you to know, Son, I will always be here,
I will never forsake you, I love you so dear.
One day I will be gone, but these words will remain,
And if ever in doubt, please read them again.

Love, Dad xxxx
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 4
- Shares 1007
- Favorited 53
- Votes 163
- Rating 4.52
Featured Shared Story

I was very touched. My son is also in prison for a stupid incident because of his ex-wife of 20 years and his best friend. He is nearing time for parole. He has nearly spent 4 years of an...

Read complete story

Share your story! (4)
10. Daddy's Gone
- By Alison Henderson
- Published by Family Friend Poems December 2007
Dedicated to families who have the emotional trauma of telling a child that their Daddy has been incarcerated.

How To Tell A Child His Dad Is In Prison Poem

How do you sit down and talk to your son
and tell him that his Daddy has gone?
It's easier explaining the meaning of death
and why people die and draw their last breath.

How do you sit down and talk to your son
and tell him that his Daddy has gone?
It's easier explaining the meaning of death
and why people die and draw their last breath.

But Daddy, he's gone to no peaceful heaven.
Instead he's in prison and serving a seven,
so how do you sit down and tell your own son
the whys and the reasons his Daddy has gone?

"Listen, my son, you'll need to be strong.
Daddy has done something terribly wrong.
He's gone into prison for quite a long time,
and this is what happens when you commit crime."

"Daddy still loves us, he'll phone and he'll write,
ring you to wish you goodnight and sleep tight.
We can sit down together and write him a letter.
It'll make Daddy smile and make him feel better."

"We can go and see Daddy, perhaps once a week,
to give him a hug and a kiss on the cheek.
You can draw Daddy pictures and paintings at school
to put on his wall, which will look really cool."

I tried telling my son with emotional tact
the truth of the matter, but you can't hide the fact.
His Daddy has gone and has gone for a while.
You can't say it with flowers or manage a smile.

So how do you sit down and talk to your son
and answer his questions why Daddy has gone?
All you can do is just tell him your way
and pray to the Lord he'll be home soon one day.
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 30
- Shares 425
- Favorited 25
- Votes 129
- Rating 4.50
Featured Shared Story

I lost my parents 26 days apart back in February and March of 2013. I think of them both 5, 10, 50 times a day still. I want them back as well, so I know what you are going through. I feel...

Read complete story

Share your story! (30)
11. Missing A Friend When I'm Locked Up
- By Shannon
- Published by Family Friend Poems September 2012
For my best friend, Wynona. I'm missing her very much. Love from Shannon.

Another month has come,
But you're still so far away.
You're always in my heart
Each and every day.

Another month has come,
But you're still so far away.
You're always in my heart
Each and every day.

I'm sorry I couldn't be here
For when you needed me most.
I wish time would hurry,
But it goes so slow.

Phone calls aren't enough.
I need the real you,
The one who supports me,
My sister, my glue.

We've been through so much together
In so little time we've shared,
I will never forget all the moments
That you've shown me you cared.

I know it's hard, but my time will come soon.
Keep smiling, beautiful, 'cause it looks good on you!
So until I see you when my time comes to an end,
Stay strong bub, love your best friend.

I miss you so much.
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 1
- Shares 817
- Favorited 16
- Votes 93
- Rating 4.48
Featured Shared Story

This how I feel about my BFF who moved far away and I haven't seen her for a long time, I really miss her!

Share your story! (1)
12. The Window
- By William J. Ray
- Published by Family Friend Poems February 2006
Separated by a window of glass, they cannot touch, their chance has passed. They can only talk of what has been and of the trouble he's already in.

Poem About Jail Glass Between Mom And Son

There you are
On the other side of the window
You look sad and scared
Wondering where your son is about to go

There you are
On the other side of the window
You look sad and scared
Wondering where your son is about to go

You tell me you miss me
And that you want me home
Then you smile
And tell me how much my little brother has grown

We catch up on lost times
As fast as we can
Because we both know
We'll probably never see each other again

You start crying
And I can see
That deep inside you're dying
You're blaming yourself
For not being the best mom
And I tell you
It was my choice to do wrong

It hurts me to see you blaming yourself
Because I know that deep inside
You wish you could help
Because you already have one son gone
And you're about to lose another one

The only thing you want right now
Are your two oldest children
Back with their little brother
And home with their loving mother

It's about time for you to go
We sit in silence
Wishing that we were on the same side of the window
That we could hug for one last time
Before I get sent away for my crime

You put your hand to the glass
And I start crying
I've hurt so many people and this is the last
Because it's not worth watching my whole life go
Behind the window
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 16
- Shares 410
- Favorited 34
- Votes 164
- Rating 4.35
Featured Shared Story

I know how that feeling feels with y'all's son locked up, I also have a son who is waiting for his sentencing at this moment. He has been in county jail going on 5 years waiting for his...

Read complete story

Share your story! (16)
13. Night Falls
- By Marcella Myer
- Published by Family Friend Poems November 2010
My boyfriend is away in prison, and every day it hurts me so much raising our daughter by myself, so this poem just flowed from my heart, with nothing but sincerity and honesty of how I feel.

Poem About Missing Boyfriend In Jail

Night falls and morning comes and still no sign of you
I wonder what you're doing and wished I were there with you

I think about you every day

Night falls and morning comes and still no sign of you
I wonder what you're doing and wished I were there with you

I think about you every day
and hope you're missing me too

I know we'll be together someday 'cause dreams do come true.
But until we find each other all I can do
Is dream of us together, alone just me and you
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 10
- Shares 305
- Favorited 51
- Votes 64
- Rating 4.23
Featured Shared Story

Wow this site and all the comments have really made me feel less alone, my fiancée and I are at beginning of his 2 year sentence and everyone is so right it takes more strength and commitment...

Read complete story

Share your story! (10)
14. The Bars Between Us
- By Cindy Francis
- Published by Family Friend Poems January 2016
This poem is for my boyfriend who is in prison for a while. Some people thinks it's crazy holding onto someone you can't see, but it makes our love stronger, and I know one day he will be free. Until then, I will sit here and cry on my knees. It feels like no one knows what it's like to be in deep love with someone who you don't really see. It's hard to get through.

Poem About Prison Separating Us

The bars between us keep us apart.
The bars between us can't keep you out of my heart.
The bars between us create hugs we have to keep.
The bars between us make me weak.

The bars between us keep us apart.
The bars between us can't keep you out of my heart.
The bars between us create hugs we have to keep.
The bars between us make me weak.
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 2
- Shares 106
- Favorited 32
- Votes 83
- Rating 4.10
Featured Shared Story

These poem has really helped me get though my days AND nights while my husband's gone and I'm trying to play the single mommy of 4 role alone....

Share your story! (2)
15. Tearing Down The Walls
- By Mrs Shamley
- Published by Family Friend Poems September 2008
This is a poem about how my husband chose drugs over his family and went away to prison and got out 3 months ago and he is now back to his old ways and sure to go to prison again anytime soon. Please people, DON'T DO DRUGS; it's not worth it.

Poem About Husband Not Changing After Jail Time

When I met you, it was like I had known you for years.
After I married you life was days full of never ending tears.
The first time you went away I stood strong by your side.
The second time you left me I just wanted to curl up and die.

When I met you, it was like I had known you for years.
After I married you life was days full of never ending tears.
The first time you went away I stood strong by your side.
The second time you left me I just wanted to curl up and die.
We shared so much in such a little time.
You were my best friend, lover, and you would do anything for me at the drop of a dime.
Then you changed and hurt me real bad.
After you promised to be my daughter's new dad.
I don't know what we did so wrong to deserve this pain.
I didn't want our marriage to end in such vain.
Visiting you in prison used to make me sick inside.
You weren't there when I needed you, and I felt like I wanted to die.
You weren't there to hold me like you used to when I fell asleep at night.
As much as I hated to, I even missed when we had a fight.
The last time you went to prison it was for three years.
You got out 3 months ago, and all you have brought me is tears.
You have gone back to your same old ways.
You just don't know how much I miss the old days
When we used to laugh and lay in bed and talk 'till the early morn.
Now sometimes I wish you were never born.
I loved you so much, so much I ruined my life for you.
And this is how you repay me, it's ok because you will get what's coming to you when the time is due.

But as much as you hurt me, I still have love in my heart.
Just never understood why you let drugs tear our family apart.
More...

Go To Poem Page
- Stories 2
- Shares 142
- Favorited 28
- Votes 58
- Rating 4.60
Featured Shared Story

I totally agree with you. I, along with my fiance, were arrested due to something that happened because of our addiction. This was my first time with a charge involving drugs but not his. He...

Read complete story

Share your story! (2)
16. Dear Santa
- By Alison Henderson
- Published by Family Friend Poems October 2007
A girl writes a letter to Santa asking him to get her mom released from prison. Dedicated to Sandra currently serving five years in prison in the UK.

Mom in Prison Poem

Me and Mum would always write
dear Santa Claus a note,
but this year Mum won't be around
so this is what I wrote:...

Me and Mum would always write
dear Santa Claus a note,
but this year Mum won't be around
so this is what I wrote:

Dear Santa, if I had one wish
to make all on my own,
it would be to release my Mum
and let her please come home.

Grandma makes the Christmas roast
with lots of food to eat,
but this year in the dining room
there'll be an empty seat.

I know it's far too much to ask,
so this year there's no wish,
but Santa could I ask you to
deliver my Mum this...

Trust me, Mum, you will get through
don't cry or shed a tear,
we'll celebrate our Christmas day
when you come home next year.

You told us to enjoy ourselves
but I can't promise that,
I'll miss you telling Christmas jokes
wearing your party hat.

I love you Mum with all my heart
be strong and please don't cry,
Christmas day will come and go
and time will soon fly by.

I know you made a big mistake
but what is done is done,
prison's stole our Christmas but...
they'll never steal my Mum.

To Mum With Love.

More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 4
- Shares 147
- Favorited 14
- Votes 50
- Rating 4.50
Featured Shared Story

While reading this, it hit me like a ton of bricks. Only 1 difference-since Santa can't bring my husband home, I have asked that he take me to heaven to be with him! Even though distance...

Read complete story

Share your story! (4)
17. The Cell
- By Jake Wilson
- Published by Family Friend Poems July 2008
I write lots of poems; this is one of my brother's favorites.

Poem About A Prison Cell

Come in and take a seat, at long last we get to meet.

I know that you are here for committing a crime, so let's you and me do some time.
...

Come in and take a seat, at long last we get to meet.

I know that you are here for committing a crime, so let's you and me do some time.

I've got some things I'd like to say, I will see you change from day to day.

The thoughts you will have, the things you will feel, I will be here for your every meal.

You will feel some sadness and you will feel alone at night, you will say "I wish that I were home," make the best of the time you've got, and let's hope that it's not a lot.

One day we will part, yes, you and me, that is the day they set you free.

I'm sure you want to know my name, it hasn't changed, it's still the same. We are both together in this man made hell.

Glad to meet you, I'm your prison cell.
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 6
- Shares 469
- Favorited 40
- Votes 95
- Rating 4.50
Featured Shared Story

My son has been sentenced to life for a crime he didn't do. Yes, I know you've heard this, but it's actually true. I've heard this from every attorney, the innocence project, everyone that...

Read complete story

Share your story! (6)
18. Prison
- By Thomas Kennedy
- Published by Family Friend Poems November 2008
This is a promise I made while I was in prison, and I missed the most important part of my life, and that is my son's birth. I will live the rest of my days with hurt and regret knowing what I have missed.

A Promise I Made While In Prison Poem

I got 10 months left in this Penitentiary
Being without you makes it feel like a century
I'm stuck in here for the crime I did
I hate myself for missing the birth of our kid...

I got 10 months left in this Penitentiary
Being without you makes it feel like a century
I'm stuck in here for the crime I did
I hate myself for missing the birth of our kid
They can't make enough bars to keep me from you
I am sorry for all the pain and hurt I put you through
10 years of my life has been spent in this place
I will never come back, when I see my son's face
I want to spend the rest of my life cheering you up when you're down
I swear I will change this time around
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 2
- Shares 76
- Favorited 19
- Votes 38
- Rating 4.40
Featured Shared Story

This promise is beautiful. My boyfriend got locked up shortly after finding out I was pregnant. We just found out last Monday that it's a boy. His first plea was 12 years. I'm terrified...and...

Read complete story

Share your story! (2)
19. Only Memories
- By Angela Pilant
- Published by Family Friend Poems December 2010
I missed out on a lot because of wrong choices. I still struggle with her death. Sometimes GOD stops us in our tracks, opens up our eyes and does for us what we can't do for ourselves, even if it's death to change us!!

Poem About Missing Out While In Jail

As I lay here in the dark, between these prison walls
I would think about you, and my tears would fall

You were the sun that shines, an encouraging thought...

As I lay here in the dark, between these prison walls
I would think about you, and my tears would fall

You were the sun that shines, an encouraging thought
wish I could have been there with you
while the Cancer you fought

You prayed over each one, but me, I was not there
I was behind those walls, with a life I could not bear

I could not escape, a drug habit I could not break
Ashamed, deranged, and full of fear
All I could think about was me being here

Overwhelmed by depression, in great despair
Feeling sorry for myself, thinking, "This is not fair"

"How did I get here?", "What did I do?"
You're fighting for your life and I am stuck here without you

Some time has gone by, released from those walls
Now your dead and gone, I live with only memories
and tears that fall

So, learn from your past, the experience you go through
You never know when a loved one will pass
and you can't say, "I Love You!"
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 4
- Shares 441
- Favorited 49
- Votes 115
- Rating 4.36
Featured Shared Story

I understand this completely. Unfortunately my husband has been incarcerated for the past 21 months. His mother passed away 30 days to the day of him being incarcerated and his father...

Read complete story

Share your story! (4)
20. Thinking About Mother
- By Terrie L. Sherman
- Published by Family Friend Poems February 2006
Within the walls of prison, there is plenty of time to think of how things could have been different.

Reflecting In Prison

Within these walls this prison
My mind and thoughts run free.
I think of mom and days gone by
And of what she meant to me.

Within these walls this prison
My mind and thoughts run free.
I think of mom and days gone by
And of what she meant to me.
I wonder how life would have been
Had she not gone away
And would I be behind these bars
If she were here today
How would my life be different?
I've asked a million times
If I could only talk to her
She might have stopped my crimes.
I'm thankful for the time we had
But she could not have known
Of the dark void left within my life
In the years since she's been gone.
I needed her and miss her.
I love her for a fact
But I know my life is different
And I know I can't turn back.
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 3
- Shares 120
- Favorited 14
- Votes 36
- Rating 4.28
Featured Shared Story

Mommy's away. It's been 4 years since I've seen you or even touched you. I miss you, but at the same time I'm scared to see you for fear that I'll get attached and know deep down Mommy didn't...

Read complete story

Share your story! (3)

1 - 20 of 25 Poems

Prison Poems

Poems for When a Family Member is in Jail

25 Poignant and Heart-wrenching Poems about Prison

1. My Rage

I have been abused like any other child out there has. It makes no difference, Abuse is Abuse! That's how I've learned to be respected by others. So do not judge me for what I've done in my past. Everyone makes mistakes and I have truly learned from mine..... Have You?

2. My Prayer

3. The Game

This was written to my boyfriend in jail while I was missing him more than words can describe.

4. Without You

This is a poem I wrote for my boyfriend who is incarcerated!

5. Yaz And Orr

6. Thoughts Of A Convict

7. The Forgotten Victim

Unless a person has experienced this situation, it is very hard to put in to words. Families of prisoners are the forgotten victims.

8. Daddy, You're In Jail

A child writes to her father who is in jail. She writes him words of hope and love, reminding him that there are many outside who love him.

9. End Of A Journey

This is a poem I will be sending to my son as he nears the end of a prison sentence. It's really a sequel to "Too Young for Bars," the poem I wrote when my son was first sent away.

10. Daddy's Gone

Dedicated to families who have the emotional trauma of telling a child that their Daddy has been incarcerated.

11. Missing A Friend When I'm Locked Up

For my best friend, Wynona. I'm missing her very much. Love from Shannon.

12. The Window

Separated by a window of glass, they cannot touch, their chance has passed. They can only talk of what has been and of the trouble he's already in.

13. Night Falls

My boyfriend is away in prison, and every day it hurts me so much raising our daughter by myself, so this poem just flowed from my heart, with nothing but sincerity and honesty of how I feel.

14. The Bars Between Us

15. Tearing Down The Walls

This is a poem about how my husband chose drugs over his family and went away to prison and got out 3 months ago and he is now back to his old ways and sure to go to prison again anytime soon. Please people, DON'T DO DRUGS; it's not worth it.

16. Dear Santa

A girl writes a letter to Santa asking him to get her mom released from prison. Dedicated to Sandra currently serving five years in prison in the UK.

17. The Cell

I write lots of poems; this is one of my brother's favorites.

18. Prison

This is a promise I made while I was in prison, and I missed the most important part of my life, and that is my son's birth. I will live the rest of my days with hurt and regret knowing what I have missed.

19. Only Memories

I missed out on a lot because of wrong choices. I still struggle with her death. Sometimes GOD stops us in our tracks, opens up our eyes and does for us what we can't do for ourselves, even if it's death to change us!!

20. Thinking About Mother

Within the walls of prison, there is plenty of time to think of how things could have been different.